Description
This bright and creamy cheesecake blends zesty lemon with a sweet raspberry swirl over a buttery graham crust. A stunning baked dessert perfect for spring or summer gatherings.
Ingredients
For the crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the raspberry swirl:
1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the cheesecake filling:
24 oz cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs
Optional garnish:
Fresh raspberries
Lemon slices or curls
Whipped cream
Instructions
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
Make the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the pan and bake for 8–10 minutes. Let cool.
Make raspberry swirl: In a saucepan, combine raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Press through a fine sieve to remove seeds. Cool.
Make cheesecake filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add sour cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla. Mix until combined.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low and scraping the bowl between additions.
Pour filling over crust and smooth the top. Drop spoonfuls of raspberry puree over the surface. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl.
Bake for 55–65 minutes until the edges are set and center jiggles slightly.
Turn off oven, crack door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Then chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Garnish with fresh raspberries, lemon curls, or whipped cream before serving.
Notes
Use almond extract for a hint of nuttiness.
Add crushed nuts to the crust for added texture.
Double the raspberry swirl for extra fruity flavor.
Substitute strained raspberry preserves for a shortcut.
Lighten it up with low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
